Hunsaker steps in
Fred Hunsaker just couldn’t stay retired.
After retiring from his position as vice president of administrative services on Dec. 31, Hunsaker is back to work at Utah State University, serving as the interim athletic director.
Hunsaker received a phone call from USU President Kermit L. Hall last week asking him to serve in the position for 60 days while Rance Pugmire was placed on administrative leave after being arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol.
“This was not what I had in mind for retirement,” Hunsaker said. “I have some plans that we’re in the process of changing.”
While guiding the athletic department is not a cruise to the Bahamas, Hunsaker said he is happy to offer a support role to the staff and coaches in the department.
“If I can be of some help, then I’m willing to do that,” he said. “I see the role as … not to come in and try to change programs or tell [coaches] how to do it, they are the professionals and I have great respect for them.”
Hunsaker said he will serve in the position for 60 days. It may end up being fewer days that he is needed, but it will definitely not be more.
“I view this as a short-term assignment to lend the support, during what I would consider a critical time,” he said.
With all the momentum surrounding the basketball team and changes in conference affiliation, Hunsaker said he hopes to be able to help the existing staff fulfill their duties.
“I think one of the things that I can offer is to relieve the staff of having to absorb some of the duties that Rance would normally perform,” he said.
Hunsaker said his 12 years as vice president of administrative services would help him fulfill the duties of athletic director.
“Many of the responsibilities of an athletic director relates to the administration of a university,” he said.
The personnel and budget issues of an administration are similar to that faced in athletics.
“I have always worked with Rance and predecessors very closely on budget issues,” Hunsaker said.
Hunsaker will serve in the role until Pugmire is reinstated.
“I was willing to come back and fulfill this role for a short period of time,” he said.
-str@cc.usu.edu